Missouri Governor Declares State of Emergency Ahead of Severe Weather

Order activates state's emergency operations plan to coordinate with local leaders if needed

Apr. 17, 2026 at 8:08pm

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Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has declared a State of Emergency ahead of potentially dangerous severe weather expected to hit the state on Friday, April 17. The order activates the state's emergency operations plan, allowing state agencies to coordinate directly with county and city leaders if help is needed during the storms.

Why it matters

Severe weather, including possible storms, hail, strong winds, and potential tornadoes, is forecast to move through the Kansas City metro area on Friday. A flood watch is also in place, prompting the governor to take proactive steps to ensure emergency management teams are prepared to protect Missourians if conditions worsen.

The details

Governor Kehoe's executive order is a precautionary measure to ensure the state's emergency management resources are fully activated and ready to support local authorities if needed during the severe weather event. The order allows state agencies to work directly with county and city leaders to coordinate any necessary response efforts.

  • The severe weather is expected to hit the Kansas City metro area on Friday, April 17.

The players

Mike Kehoe

The Governor of Missouri who declared the State of Emergency.

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What they’re saying

“This Executive Order is a proactive step to ensure our emergency management teams are fully prepared should these storms require immediate action to protect Missourians.”

— Mike Kehoe, Governor of Missouri

What’s next

The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to support any necessary coordination efforts, and Missourians are advised to be ready to act if conditions worsen.

The takeaway

Governor Kehoe's declaration of a State of Emergency underscores the seriousness of the severe weather threat facing Missouri on Friday and the state's commitment to ensuring emergency resources are in place to protect residents if needed.